Karate WA is pleased to welcome two new Elected Directors to the Board and to confirm the re-nomination of an existing Director following the recent AGM in November 2025..
Rudi James and Heidi Saayman join the Board bringing strong governance, professional expertise, and a shared commitment to the long-term sustainability and growth of karate in Western Australia. The Board is also pleased to confirm the re-nomination of Frank Gotsis, who continues his service as an Elected Director, providing valuable continuity and experience.
Together, the Board reflects a balance of fresh perspective and organisational knowledge, supporting strong governance, financial responsibility, and member-focused outcomes.
The Board plays a vital role in setting strategic direction, overseeing organisational performance, and ensuring Karate WA continues to operate with integrity, transparency, and accountability. The mix of new and returning Directors strengthens the Board’s collective capability as the organisation moves forward.
We warmly welcome Rudi and Heidi to the Board and thank Frank for his continued service. We look forward to working together to support clubs, athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and members across Western Australia.
Board Member Profiles
Rudi James
Rudi James brings leadership and governance experience to the Karate WA Board. He is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Rudi’s involvement in Karate extends over four decades including the honour of having represented Australia at the WKF World Championships.
Rudi currently serves as Head of Compliance at Australian Gas Infrastructure Group, one of Australia’s largest energry infrastructure businesses. His expertise spans strategic planning, governance, risk, compliance activities along with financial oversight.
Rudi is strongly committed to inclusive decision-making, diversity of voice, and building resilient organisations. He brings a considered, collaborative approach to governance and is dedicated to supporting the long-term sustainability and integrity of karate in Western Australia.
Heidi Saayman
Heidi Saayman is a Chartered Accountant with more than 20 years’ experience in accounting, financial management, audits, and internal controls across a range of sectors. Her professional background brings valuable financial and governance expertise to the Karate WA Board.
Heidi is an active member of the karate community. She has been training in karate for over six years, holds a 1st dan in Shito-Ryu, and has volunteered at both club and state-level competitions. In 2023, she represented Western Australia in the Veterans Kumite division at the Australian National Karate Championships.
Heidi is passionate about growing participation, strengthening governance, and supporting performance pathways while upholding the values of discipline, respect, and excellence within the sport.
Frank Gotsis
Frank Gotsis has been re-nominated as an Elected Director and continues his service on the Karate WA Board. He brings more than 30 years’ involvement in karate as a practitioner, instructor, and volunteer, along with valuable business and governance experience.
Frank holds a Bachelor of Business with postgraduate qualifications in Finance and Economics and is a small business owner with corporate experience. During his previous term on the Board, he has contributed across governance, finance, and operational areas, including active involvement on the Finance Committee and Events Committee.
Frank has also supported Karate WA as an events volunteer and as a State and National referee. His continued involvement provides important continuity and supports the delivery of high-quality competitions and activities for the benefit of members.
